Lex Visas

Malaysia work visa guide for Indians with requirements and application process

Malaysia Work Visa Guide by Lex Visas

TYPES OF WORK VISAS / WORK PERMITS IN MALAYSIA

Foreign nationals intending to work in Malaysia must obtain an approved work pass issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia.

  1. Employment Pass (EP)

    For highly skilled professionals, managers, and executives working in Malaysian companies.

  2. Temporary Employment Pass (TEP)

    For semi-skilled or low-skilled workers in approved sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and plantations.

  3. Professional Visit Pass (PVP)

    For foreign professionals providing short-term services (consultants, trainers, experts).

  4. Residence Pass – Talent (RP-T)

    For highly qualified expatriates seeking long-term residence and employment flexibility.

ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENT

Applicants generally must:

  • Have a valid job offer from a Malaysian employer.
  • Meet minimum salary thresholds (for Employment Pass).
  • Possess relevant academic or professional qualifications.
  • Hold a passport with sufficient validity.
  • Obtain company approval from relevant authorities (if required).
  • Pass medical examination (for certain pass types).

Employers must be registered and compliant with Malaysian labour and immigration regulations.

STEP-BY-STEP APPLICATION PROCESS

  • Secure job offer from Malaysian employer.
  • Employer submits Employment Pass application through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) or MYXpats Centre.
  • Obtain approval letter from Immigration Department.
  • Apply for entry visa (if required) at Malaysian embassy.
  • Travel to Malaysia.
  • Complete medical screening (if applicable).
  • Receive pass endorsement in passport.

PROCESSING TIME AND VALIDITY

  • Processing Time: Typically 2 – 6 weeks depending on pass type.
  • Employment Pass Validity: 1 to 5 years (depending on category and contract).
  • Temporary Employment Pass: Usually valid up to 2 years.
  • Renewable subject to continued employment and compliance.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your employer must submit a renewal application before the current pass expires. Renewal approval depends on continued employment and meeting salary/eligibility criteria.
The employer must submit a cancellation request to the Immigration Department. The employee’s pass must be formally cancelled before leaving Malaysia or changing employers.
Status can typically be checked online through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) portal or via your employer’s MYXpats account.
Yes. Employment Pass holders (usually Category I and II) may sponsor eligible dependents (spouse and children) under a Dependent Pass, subject to salary requirements and approval.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Lex Visas Pvt. Ltd. is not a law firm. Content is based on industry experience and practical case handling. Any actions taken based on this information are at the reader’s sole discretion and responsibility.